Genetic Counseling

Earning a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling will help you be prepared for the high demand, rapidly evolving field of genomic medicine. A combination of classroom and clinical experiences in pediatric, prenatal, cancer, and other specialties teach you to work with patients and families who are learning about and coping with the risk genetic disease may have for themselves and their relatives.

Genetic counseling is a versatile degree that allows you to also work with companies, on research teams, and with patient advocacy groups. Located in the heart of a major medical and research center, the UAB genetic counseling program can set you apart with a dynamic curriculum tailored to your goals.

Quick Facts

Genetic Counselor was named one of the “25 Amazing Healthcare Support Jobs” for 2016 in an article published by U.S. News & World Report.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a growth rate of 29% for genetic counseling positions over the years 2014 - 2024. This far exceeds the average growth rate of 7% for all occupations.

#IAmaGeneticCounselor

On Thursday, November 8, 2018, we celebrated the second National Genetic Counselor Awareness Day. For the inaugural National Counselor Day in 2017 we collected videos from our alumni, faculty and clinicians talking about why they love being Genetic Counselors - click here to see all our videos. We hope you will watch, enjoy and share our videos. You can also join the national conversation on social media using #IAmaGeneticCounselor.

Certifications and Licensures

The UAB genetic counseling program is designed to lead to professional certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling, Inc (ABGC). While there is a national certification exam offered by ABGC, board certification does not confer state licensure. Specific licensure requirements vary from state to state. UAB is working to develop an online, publicly-accessible database to assist in providing this state-by-state information. In the meantime, if you are interested in learning about potential professional licensure requirements in your state for a specific degree program, please contact UAB State Authorization at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call eLearning and Professional Learning staff at 205-934-3258.

Admissions

FAQs

Curriculum

Spotlight

Rebecca Shapiro, UAB Genetic Counseling Class of 2017, traveled 140 miles for her undergraduate degree (Detroit to Kalamazoo) and 718 miles for her graduate degree (Kalamazoo to Birmingham).

UAB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and family-friendly environment in which all faculty and staff can excel and achieve work/life balance irrespective of race, national origin, age, genetic or family medical history, gender, faith, gender identity and expression as well as sexual orientation. UAB also encourages applications from individuals with disabilities and veterans.